Running to Win Again: Reclaiming Discipline in Body and Spirit

1 Corinthians 9:26–27 (LSB)
“Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.”

This passage hit me hard today. Over the last year, I have seen discipline in my physical life slip. Last year, I lost thirty pounds through consistent effort and focus. I felt healthier, stronger, and more alert for the work of ministry. Somewhere along the way, I lost that rhythm. A couple of injuries and some dark days set me back. My headaches are back, my knees hurt, and my overall stamina is low. And my spirit seems a little dry. The habits that once built strength gave way to convenience and comfort. The pounds came back, and so did the conviction.

Reading Paul’s words this morning reminded me that spiritual growth and physical discipline are connected. When Paul speaks of running with aim and disciplining the body, he is not just talking about athletics. He is talking about stewardship. God has given us one body and one life to use for His glory. When I neglect my health, I am not only hurting myself, but I am dulling the edge of my ministry, my energy, and my focus.

Running with Purpose Again

Paul says, “I run in such a way, as not without aim.” That is where I need to start again, running with purpose. For me, this is not just about losing weight. It is about living with intention. It is about aligning every area of life —physical and spiritual —to the same goal: to honor Christ.

I want my life to reflect that purpose again. Not to chase vanity or appearance, but to pursue vitality for the mission God has given me. Just like Paul, I do not want to live aimlessly. I want to train with direction, knowing that every choice matters.

The Fight Within

“I box in such a way, as not beating the air.” The fight Paul describes is not against an opponent in the ring. It is against the self, against laziness, apathy, and the lies that tell us comfort is more important than calling. Over this past year, I have let that fight slip. I know what discipline feels like, and I know what compromise feels like. Discipline produces freedom. Compromise produces frustration.

I am choosing to fight again. Not flailing aimlessly, but striking with purpose—meal by meal, workout by workout, prayer by prayer. Every act of obedience is part of the fight.

Bringing the Body Under Control

Paul says, “I discipline my body and make it my slave.” That is strong language. It is a reminder that my body is not meant to rule me. I am meant to rule it, under the authority of Christ. When I fail to do that, my flesh takes the driver’s seat, and I end up running in circles instead of toward the prize.

This next season for me is about bringing my physical life back under the lordship of Christ. Not through guilt, but through grace. Discipline is not punishment; it is discipleship. God uses it to shape my body, my habits, and my heart into something useful for His glory.

Finishing the Race Well

Paul’s concern was that after preaching to others, he would not become disqualified himself. That truth cuts deep. I can preach discipline, commitment, and faithfulness, but if I neglect them in my own life, my example loses power. The best sermons are lived before they are preached.

So, I begin again. This is not just a physical journey; it is a spiritual one. Every workout is an act of stewardship. Every healthy decision is an act of obedience. Every moment of discipline is an offering to the One who called me to run the race.

I am "running" again, not without aim. I am "fighting" again, not beating the air. I am disciplining my body and bringing it under control, not out of shame but out of love for Christ. I want to finish this race strong, both in ministry and in life.

If you have lost your discipline, start again with me. The same grace that forgives our sin also fuels our strength. The same God who saved our souls can restore our bodies. Let us run to win, for His glory.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Pastor Jody